Looming for a larger purpose

Elsie Rogers pupils create hats, scarves for homeless

Elsie Rogers pupils create hats, scarves for homeless

February 08, 2006|KIM KILBRIDE Tribune Staff Writer

Stephanie Olesen tapped the wind chimes in her classroom at Elsie Rogers Elementary School and her students clamored excitedly. It was time for the first-, second- and third-graders' pre-lunch play time. But for the nearly 30 kids who have been forfeiting recesses since early December, it was time for knitting. Yes, knitting. Hats with pompons and colorful scarves with fringe and other adornments. All are being made -- by hand -- by second- and third-graders. They'll donate 35 to 40 items to the Center for the Homeless in South Bend. Hunter Snider, a third-grader, held up his long pastel-colored scarf that was still attached to a loom to show a visitor. On inspecting the very neatly done piece, he pointed out one minor flaw. Why miss recess to knit scarves? he was asked. To help people stay warm, he said. Last year, Olesen received a grant from the P-H-M Educational Foundation to fund the project. With that money, she purchased several knitting looms and yarn. The looms make knitting easier for little hands, she said. The kids' response to the undertaking has been overwhelming. Many, including Korteney Newman, work on their hats and scarves at home, too. And, several are working on their second or third item. A third-grader, Korteney is actually now on her fifth piece. Olesen got the idea for the project after noticing the looms in an advertising flier. She remembered using one herself years ago with the help of her grandmother. When the students first started knitting, Olesen said, she spent a lot of time fixing little holes or missed stitches in their projects. But then, she said, she realized the little imperfections add character to the pieces the students have been so eager to create to help others who are less fortunate than themselves. Staff writer Kim Kilbride: kkilbride@sbtinfo.com (574) 235-6554